Mercedes-Benz pulled a shocker when it introduced its ML55 AMG. The
company took its refined and luxurious V8-powered ML430 and added power,
brawn and guts.

OUTSIDE - The ML-Class redefined how an everyday SUV could look. Its
very short front and rear overhangs create an illusion that makes it
look smaller than its actual size. To differentiate the AMG from the
other two ML versions, long, narrow bulges on the hood, called "power
domes" by the company, were designed to imply a connection to the
Mercedes "gullwing" coupe of the '50s. The front bumper cover has
built-in fog lamps, high-pressure headlamp washers and a slightly
different look than the others. A set of muscular-looking fender flares
were also added, along with a beefier rear bumper and dual chrome-
tipped exhaust pipes. Five-spoke, 18-inch alloy wheels come as standard
equipment, as do very wide, high-performance 285/50WR18 Dunlop tires.

INSIDE - When Mercedes designed the ML's interior, the company not
only kept luxury at the forefront, but it focused on the utility side of
SUV, too. With that in mind, it's no wonder that even though it's a
relatively small vehicle compared to some other SUVs, it can hold a
sizable amount of cargo (71 cubic feet with the seats down; 33.5 cubic
feet with the seats up) and do it in "modular" fashion. The rear seats
are split three ways and can be folded as such, while several tie-down
hooks allow the secure transport of cargo. But it wouldn't be a Benz
without luxury items, so in addition to the standard high-powered
stereo, rich leather upholstery and soft textures on the dashboard, AMG
adds dark-stained burled walnut to the door panels, instrument panel and
steering wheel. The off-white gauges are surrounded by chrome rings to
compliment the same treatment of the ventilation controls. Standard ML55
features include an in-dash Global Positioning Satellite Navigation
system, power windows, mirrors and door locks, auto-dimming mirrors,
heated front seats, cruise control, air conditioning, rear wiper/washer
and power front seats with memory.

ON THE ROAD - For the most part, under the hood is what makes an
ML55 an AMG. The company put a forged steel "stroker" crankshaft, and
matched-weight pistons and connecting rods into its 5.0-liter V8 engine
to raise the displacement by a half-liter. To enhance its intake system,
AMG added a larger cross-section to the magnesium intake manifold,
lightweight modular camshafts with longer duration profiles, stiffer
valve springs, a recalibrated fuel injector system and dual-path
"plumbing." All of these modifications add up to 342 horsepower and 376
lb-ft of torque. Zero-to-60 mph comes in a rapid seven seconds, and it
can pull over 90 mph in the quarter mile. Connected to the engine is a
five-speed automatic transmission with electronic "intelligence," along
with all-wheel drive and downhill traction control for superior grip on
the street or off-road. An electronic stability program (ESP) assists
the driver in maintaining control in the event of a skid or slide.

BEHIND THE WHEEL - The ML55 rides on pretty much the standard
ML-Class suspension, which is one of the best in the SUV business. It's
fully independent front and rear, though the shocks, springs and tuning
rates are all stiffer than the ML430 and ML320. Many of the suspension
components are made of forged aluminum, and no important hardware like
the fuel tank and transmission pan protrudes below the lower control
arms. This makes sense since the ML55 is a true off-roader as are the
"basic" ML320 and 430 models but few M55's will ever experience a dry
wash or creek bed. Accurate speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion steering
gives plenty of feedback, while its massive four-wheel disc brakes
feature four-piston calipers up front, which reduce fade and increase
braking grip. Naturally, a four-wheel anti-lock braking system is
standard.